Don't Become the Talk of Your Office Holiday Party!

Posted by redthil On 12/08/2006 06:32:00 PM

Here are some rules of the road, which i read from an article and thought that it will be useful, for that most joyous of holiday happenings: The Office Holiday Party.

  1. Watch the Alcohol! :::::::: Rule number one for a smooth holiday party is to limit your alcohol intake. Each of us knows our tolerance. The holiday party can be especially dangerous because drinks are often free and the point of the party is to celebrate -- and let off a little steam. While it may be tempting to indulge on the company dollar with the people you spend so much of your time with, resist the urge. Alcohol makes emotions and opinions flow more freely. Liquid confidence can be a culprit in all sorts of choices you'll regret later -- telling your boss what you really think of him or taking a secret crush to the next level. To prevent disaster, decide beforehand how much you will drink and stick to it. Alternate wine or drinks with water. And don't skip the food. If food is minimal or not provided, grab a granola bar and glass of skim milk beforehand.It sounds cliché, but it's amazing how many people let alcohol get the best of them at these events! Exercising self-control at a holiday work party will pay dividends for the entire year to come. Throwing caution to the wind will get you a new reputation as "Make-out Molly" or "Nauseous Nancy" until you get another job. Is it worth it?
  2. Dress with A Sense of Work in Mind ::::::::: Your party attire should be in line with what you wear to work. Some businesses are casual and employees don't have to think much of what they wear. Others are more strict, so after-hours clothes can be a bit more relaxed, but not too revealing. If your coworkers have never seen you in open-toed shoes or bare legs, pass on the short dress or cleavage-baring shirt. Keep it professional. Wear your sexy-somethings to other holiday events with your friends and partner!A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: Would I be comfortable wearing this if something unexpectedly came up at the office? If the answer is no, change your outfit.
  3. Don't Be a Brownnoser :::::::: No one likes a brownnoser and if you spend your night chasing around the boss or other high-level executives, your stock with your fellow colleagues is going to drop precipitously. Be polite and say hello. But spend your time with the people you actually know and enjoy and depend on at work. This is your time to celebrate your accomplishments with each other. Be sure to thank the person who organized the holiday party, too.
  4. Mingle! :::::::::: Instead of trying to further your career, take the holiday party as an opportunity to get to know some peers. Work the room. Strike up conversations with some unknowns.
  5. Consider Your Date Wisely ::::::::: If you're allowed to bring a date, and you should certainly check the policy beforehand, remember that he or she will reflect on you as much as you do. Significant others' behavior, drinking, dress, and social skills all matter. Make sure your date is on the same page as you. Also, be sure to include your date in conversations and introductions so they feel included. Otherwise, go stag.

Strangely enough, a strikingly similar set of rules apply for family holiday parties. Watch the alcohol, dress for your audience, and try to keep the conversation light and varied. The politics of cliquishness applies as much to family gatherings as it does to the office. No one wants to feel left out and you always know when you're being left out. Remember, you never know when you might need a colleague, or a relative's, help.

Harmony is the ultimate goal this holiday season, no matter where, no matter when.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Cheers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2 comments

  1. Deepa Said,

    good one thalai... useful post to many... :P

    Posted on Friday, May 14, 2010 11:07:00 AM

     
  2. redthil Said,

    thanks boss!!!!

    but hope they read it.. if not, atleast get to know it, before they become popular.. :)

    Posted on Friday, May 14, 2010 1:47:00 PM

     
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